Pigs & Poultry
Farm Energy Costs: Improving Energy Efficiency
Farm Energy Costs: Improving Energy Efficiency Energy costs are a major expense for pig farms. Reducing energy use improves sustainability and saves money. A simple review of energy use can highlight ways to cut costs and boost efficiency, Emer McCrum tells us more. Energy use (measured in kWh/ pig produced) is a […]
28 March 2025
Eating more – it’s easier said than done!
Eating more – it’s easier said than done! Michael Mc Keon highlights the importance of maximising sow feed intake. It boosts milk yield, weaning weights, and fertility. But how do we make it happen? We all agree that good feed intake is crucial. But how do we achieve it? Pig producers often […]
21 March 2025
Pig slurry in tillage – a natural boost for soil & crops
Pig slurry in tillage – a natural boost for soil & crops We explore the benefits of using pig slurry as an alternative to chemical fertilisers in tillage farming on the latest Tillage Edge podcast. Michael McKeon, Teagasc pig specialist, and Ciaran Collins, Teagasc tillage specialist, discuss how to target the use […]
20 March 2025
Broiler litter as a fertiliser in tillage systems
Broiler litter as a fertiliser in tillage systems Broiler litter boosts soil fertility and structure while cutting costs for tillage farmers. Rich in key nutrients, it must be managed carefully to maximise benefits and minimise risks. Veronica Nyhan highlights its role in sustainable farming with proper application. Broiler litter is composed of […]
20 March 2025
Teagasc Pig Welfare Workshops
Teagasc Pig Welfare Workshops The Teagasc Pig Development Department is running a number of Pig Welfare Workshops in early April. Under Pig Welfare Legislation, every farm must have someone who has attended a training course in pig welfare. It is also a requirement for the Bord Bia Quality Assurance Scheme. The workshops […]
14 March 2025
Adapt your diets for lower protein cereals
0 Adapt your diets for lower protein cereals Kieran Keane explores the drop in crude protein levels in 2024 cereal harvests. What does this mean for pig producers? With wheat, barley, and maize all testing lower than expected, it’s time to reassess formulations to avoid performance losses. It’s been apparent for some time […]
7 March 2025
Everything farmers need to know about putting solar panels on sheds
0 Everything farmers need to know about putting solar panels on sheds Barry Caslin highlights how farmers, blessed with extensive roof areas ideal for solar panel installations, can turn these underutilized areas into energy-generating assets. This can help meet their energy needs & provide the potential to contribute to the national grid. Why […]
3 March 2025
Meeting the energy requirements of lactating sows in 2025
Meeting the energy requirements of lactating sows in 2025 With litter sizes on Irish pig farms growing, Peadar Lawlor highlights the need for optimal sow nutrition during lactation. Balancing high feed intake and nutrient density is essential to rearing healthy litters while maintaining sow condition. Born alive on Irish pig farms has […]
28 February 2025
Proper insurance cover is vital
Proper insurance cover is vital Correct insurance cover is vital to protect your business if an accident occurs on the farm. It is important to understand your insurance cover when you pay your annual premium. Gerard McCutcheon outlines key areas to review, to ensure your farm stays protected. There are three main […]
21 February 2025
Heightened levels of biosecurity needed on poultry units
Heightened levels of biosecurity needed on poultry units The need to implement strict biosecurity measures on poultry units has heightened due to the circulation of avian influenza in the wild bird population in the Republic of Ireland and the confirmation of a positive case in a poultry unit in Northern Ireland. Although […]
20 February 2025